The European Union and São Tomé and Príncipe have signed a new four-year protocol, continuing their 40-year fisheries partnership.
The agreement grants EU vessels access to São Tomé and Príncipe’s waters to catch up to 6,500 tonnes of tuna and other migratory species annually.
Under the protocol, the EU will provide €3.3 million over four years, or €825,000 per year. Of this, €500,000 annually is earmarked to support sustainable fisheries management, surveillance, artisanal fishing and local communities in São Tomé and Príncipe.
In addition to EU funding, shipowners from the EU will pay €85 per tonne of fish caught, covering both licensing and catch fees.
The protocol aims to promote sustainable fishing practices, improve ocean governance and create jobs with better working conditions for fishers on board EU vessels. It also emphasises research cooperation and improved fisheries resource management.
The agreement includes binding commitments to follow the recommendations of regional fisheries management organisations and uphold relevant international agreements. It further ensures compliance with labour and safety standards as set out by the International Labour Organisation and the International Maritime Organisation.
Set to apply provisionally from 6 October 2025, the protocol will enter into full force once ratified by both parties. On the EU side, this requires formal consent from the European Parliament.
